Tangerine

Growing

Tangerines thrive when you focus on managing their size and root health. If you are planting in a container or a small garden space, you can maintain a manageable tree height through annual pruning and training. By tying down upright limbs, you can keep even larger varieties at a much more accessible height. For those with limited space, training the tree against a trellis using the espalier method is an excellent way to control growth.

To prevent common issues like root rot, ensure your planting site is well-drained. If your garden tends to stay wet, using raised beds can help keep the root zone from becoming waterlogged. When selecting your tree, keep in mind that different rootstocks will influence the final size and vigor of your plant. Some varieties may require staking for the life of the tree, while others only need support if they are planted in particularly windy locations.

When it is time to harvest, pick the fruit only when it is fully ripe and ready to use, as tangerines do not continue to ripen once they have been removed from the tree. You can tell they are ready by the color of the rind, which shifts from green to yellow or deep orange. Once harvested, keep the fruit unwashed and store it at room temperature.